Tag Archives: Wang Yi

Panama – China relations, also called Sino-Panaman relations, made headlines on June 12th 2017 when the Republic of Panama established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, and thereby severed ties with Taiwan.

Panama had maintained diplomatic relations with Taiwan, also called the Republic of China, since 1911, following the Xinhai Revolution that overthrew China’s last imperial dynasty. However, beginning in 1909, Panama had maintained diplomatic relations with the Qing Dynasty.

Panama had maintained uninterrupted diplomatic relations longer than any other country with the Republic of China, whose sovereignty includes the islands of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, Matsu and other smaller islands.

Read more about Panama’s relationship with the Republic of China (Taiwan) below or here.

The official communication released by Panama’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs can be found here.

The translated version is:

Joint Statement Between the Republic of Panama and the People’s Republic of China on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations

In light of the interests and desire of both nations, the Republic of Panama and the People’s Republic of China decide to grant mutual recognition and to establish diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level, effective upon the date this statement is signed.

The two Governments agree to develop friendly ties between the two countries on the basis of the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-aggression, non-intervention in one of the other’s internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence.

The Government of the Republic of Panama recognizes that there is only one China in the world, the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the only legitimate Government that represents all of China, and that Taiwan forms an inalienable part of the Chinese territory. Today, the Government of the Republic of Panama breaks its “diplomatic relations” with Taiwan, and commits itself to break all official relationships and contact with Taiwan. The Government of the People’s Republic of China expresses its appreciation for the aforementioned position of the Government of the Republic of Panama.

The Government of the Republic of Panama and the Government of the People’s Republic of China agree, in accordance with the stipulations of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 and international practice, on the prompt and mutual sending of Ambassadors and to provide, according to reciprocity, all the necessary help for the establishment of the Embassy of the other Party in their respective capitals as well as facilitating the execution of their functions.

With the authorization of their respective Governments, the representatives of both Parties sign the statement in the city of Beijing, on the thirteenth (13) day of the month of June of 2017, in two copies in the Chinese and Spanish languages, both texts being equally authentic.

Juan Carlos Varela’s Message to Panama on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with China

Announcement to the Republic of Panama by the President Juan Carlos Varela on the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Panama and the People’s Republic of China. June 12, 2017.

I am addressing the nation today to announce that we have made the decision to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.

Since 2007, I have made my position public that the Republic of Panama should establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. Today, as constitutional President of Panama, being consistent with this position, I ratify it because I am convinced that it is the right path for our country.

Therefore, the Vice President and Foreign Minister of the Republic, Isabel de Saint Malo de Alvarado, is in Beijing.

A moment ago, the Foreign Ministers of Panama and China met to finalize negotiations and to sign the Memorandum of Understanding, establishing diplomatic relations between our countries. In about an hour, the joint statement will be signed by which this decision is made public to the world and both Foreign Ministers will address the Press.

Until the Panama Canal opened, the railroad transported the largest volume of cargo per unit of length of all railroads in the world. The existence of the railroad was a key factor in the selection of Panama for the construction of the Canal.

On June 26th 2016, the Chinese ship Cosco Shipping Panama made history by being the first to use the expanded Canal. Today, almost one year after the opening of this great work and the decision to establish relations with China, I see this choice made at random by the Panama Canal Authority as a pleasant coincidence and a point that brought both countries closer.

This step is also an acknowledgment to the Chinese – Panamanian community, which has played an important role in Panama’s economic and social development, participating in all economic, social and political activities of our country, some even reaching important positions in the Panamanian government.

The role of Chinese associations in our country has been of great importance for Panamanian society: they have provided us with a space for a friendly and ongoing exchange between our countries.

To this day, the Republic of Panama lacked diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, a State that alone represents 20% of the world’s population and constitutes the world’s second largest economy. This is a situation that a responsible leader could not continue to allow.

During several administrations, the governments of Panama and China have tried to come together to take this step, but for reasons that are not my responsibility to explain, the negotiations could not be finalized.

The People’s Republic of China has always played an important role in Panama’s economy. Currently, it is the Canal’s second most important user and the Colon Free Zone’s largest merchandise supplier.

Large Chinese multinationals from the logistics, energy, banking, telecommunications, construction and technology sectors have established themselves in Panama, taking advantage of our country for its world-class services and being a gateway to the Americas, which in turn translates into new jobs and training for Panamanians.

The role that the People’s Republic of China plays at a regional and global level is important. Both countries are committed to the connection of an increasingly integrated world, which also creates a whole new era of opportunities for the relationship that we begin today.

With this decision we join the 174 other nations that have recognized Resolution 2758 of 1971 of the General Assembly of the United Nations.

Therefore, today, as President of the Republic of Panama, I am confident that the time has come for this relationship to strengthen: Panama and China are developing nations and we share the same views on the importance of globalization and the States’ shared responsibility to make the global development agenda, as indicated within the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, a reality.

Taiwan has been a great friend of Panama and we are very grateful for their friendship and for their cooperation on Panama’s development during our diplomatic relationship.

We will ensure that the process resulting from this decision is seamless and satisfactory. For this purpose, we have appointed a team within the Foreign Ministry to handle this in a constructive way.

The establishment of diplomatic relations between Panama and the People’s Republic of China has great potential for all. For this reason, I have instructed my Cabinet to ready their teams so that Panama can sign the necessary agreements in the short and medium term for tourism, commercial, immigration, agricultural, cultural, educational, maritime and for all other topics beneficial to our people.

We will lay the foundations to build a relationship based on trust, respect and the common good.

Today we have taken a historic step with transparency, based on mutual respect and the permanent search for our peoples’ welfare through international cooperation on the consolidation of social peace in our countries and in the world.

I am sure that this step will benefit our nations, present and future generations.

Looking always with my head held high, I can tell the Panamanian people that we have once again fulfilled our word in the pursuit of the best interests of the nation.

Panama and China Sign 19 Tourism and Trade Agreements

On November 19th 2017, Panama and the People’s Republic of China signed agreements related to trade, agriculture, tourism and the maritime sector.

Varela visited China to witness the signing of these agreements, and was hosted by Xi Jinping, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, with whom he spoke about bilateral issues and the resumption of diplomatic relations.

Varela said that the agreements coincide with Xi Jinping’s closing message during the Congress of the Communist Party, where he affirmed that “politics is service and the search for the welfare of the people, who own the country’s wealth.”

The economic and commercial agreements formalized “a policy for the promotion of investments, the financing of development projects and infrastructure,” said the Secretary of State Communication.

In addition, “the terms and conditions” were established to facilitate and promote Panamanian exports to China.

Additionally, tourism “will be revitalized” with the inclusion of Panama as an approved and promoted tourist destination, especially given the relaxed visa requirements Chinese citizens.

Varela published the following Tweet on November 17th 2017, saying:

I want to thank President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China for hosting this historic state visit that strengthens the new diplomatic relationship between our nations. #PanamaChina

Flights from Beijing, China to Panama

Panama is soon to add yet another destination to its flight repertoire. As of March 2018, Air China will offer a direct flight between Beijing and Tocumen. The aircraft will be a Boeing 777-300ER (“ER” for Extended Range), considered the world’s largest commercial twin-engine plane, with a capacity of 380 people. The Beijing, China – Tocumen, Panama flight will have a duration of 17 hours and 27 minutes.

Boeing 777-300ER in flight

Currently, the longest journey to and from Panama is with Turkish Airlines to Istanbul, Turkey, with a duration of 13 hours and 19 minutes.

During the week of December 18th, representatives from Air China inspected the Tocumen terminal, where the Boeing 777-300ER will land.

History of Panama – Taiwan Relations

The Consulate General of the Republic of China (Taiwan) was established in Panama at the beginning of the 20th century, attending to the isthmus’s Chinese immigrants, which began to arrive in the latter half of the 19th century.

On March 30, 1854, the first group of Chinese laborers arrived aboard the Clipper Sea Witch to work on the Panama Railroad. By the early 20th century, they were already established as a critical player in Panama’s economy, owning over 600 retail stores and playing a crucial role in providing the entire country with provisions.

Read more about Ethnic Chinese in Panama here. Don’t forget to check out the reference section!

In 1922, a diplomatic delegation was founded in Panama City, being elevated to the category of embassy in 1954. The Republic of Panama had established an embassy in the Republic of China (Taiwan) in 1933.

The Republic of China (Taiwan) had a cultural presence in Panama, being one of the benefactors of the creation of the Chinese Panamanian Cultural Center – Sun Yat-sen Institute. The Chinese-Panamanian Friendship Park, a symbol of friendship between the two countries, was inaugurated in Panama City in September 1997.

Since January 1st 2001, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Panama had a Free Trade Agreement. In 2005, Taiwan exported to Panama approximately 26 million dollars worth of goods, whereas Panama exported to Taiwan approximately 20 million dollars worth of goods.

As can be seen from the following screenshot, the Republic of China (Taiwan) no longer maintains a presence in Panama.

MAGNOLIA INN HOTEL & HOSTEL, CASCO VIEJO, PANAMA

Fantastic hostel. We said in Casco veijo for a week and stayed in the 6 bed mixed dorm. The building is nice and well kept and the staff is super helpful. There are 4 gym like shower stalls and 4 half baths with a toilet and a sink. They clean both every morning. The kitchen comes with pots and pans if you want to cook and there is free coffee and tea. Overall one of the better hostels that I've ever stayed at and I would stay there again if I ever returned to Panama. I would highly recommend.

Andrew Leipzig

03:44 02 Mar 19

Beautiful view, good hostel/hotel. A bit pricey for a budget traveler but not for Casco Viejo.

Rob Wit, de

11:59 28 Feb 19

Great spot and really helpful and hospitable service. Been there twice and will return.

alexandra carcasole

02:35 17 Feb 19

Spotlessly clean, great interior design, friendly staff and modern kitchen. I spent one night here and two nights at Lunas Castle. If I could go back in time I would have spent all three at Magnolia.

Kathy Jones

03:23 12 Jan 19

Located in old town Panama City, this 1800's house has been converted into a hotel and hostel. We had a nice room with a double & a twin bed plus a private bathroom. This hotel is full of old world charm and conveniently located to many restaurants.

Erin Cheng

20:48 02 Dec 18

Super helpful staff. Social environment that is not a party hospital but within walking distance of a couple minutes to party hostels and good bars. Rooms had no locks so be sure to bring a lock for valuables in the lockers (I could fit my day pack and 45L backpack in the lockers so not a problem for me whatsoever). 24 hour reception with buzz-in doors, however. Very clean. Good air-con.

Spent two wonderful days at this beautiful little boutique hotel in Casco Viejo. There is such a rich history in Casco and Magnolia is a great central location to venture from. Close to the fish market, great for lunch. Lots of amazing architecture, beautiful places to stroll along the water. And the best part about Magnolia is how clean and pretty the rooms are and it has a fun common room. Highly recommended!

David Coplon

23:40 15 Sep 18

Lovely little place in the heart of the old town. Very nice rooms with air-conditioning. The staff is very helpful and speaks English. The lounge/ dining room/ kitchen is a wonderful place to relax

Lindsey Everhart

22:16 01 Aug 18

Warm showers, clean bathrooms, air conditioned room, great location. They speak very good English at the reception desk.

Alejandro Guzmán.

02:50 15 Jul 18

Loved this place! Highly recommended. The WiFi is really good. Nice rooms. The kitchen is nice and the common area as well. Comfy beds and nice bathrooms. Staff is amazing: super friendly and helpful. Good location. The only downside is that the family living next door likes to be outside, so the whole day and part of the night you will be hearing them talking and hanging out.

Richard Bradley

00:32 07 Jul 18

Friendly. Clean. Safe. Well-maintained. Good bed and pillows. Attractive building and decor. Great location in the historic old quarter.

Martin Buergler

16:04 06 Jun 18

Great Frontdesk Team - nice Accomondation - looking to get back soon... 😊

Lul Brott

02:20 27 Apr 18

Great place, well located, super clean and the common area looks very nice. Highly recommendable!

Karl Beranek

17:25 18 Feb 18

I have had an excellent 5 day stay here. The kitchen is well stocked with utensils. The hostel rooms with AC are very cold at night but I think you can rent a blanket. The facility is very clean and the staff were very friendly and helpful.

Joseph Seco

12:27 08 Feb 18

Hotel Boutique And Luxury Hostel, great location in old Town, fabulous staff and great facilities, unbelievable rooms and hostel

May Tzur

23:15 20 Jan 18

All the staff at the hotel were amazing and very helpful. We had a problem with our room and they did the best they could to keep us happy. The kitchen is very nice and actually has an oven that works (unlike most other hostels). The shower was definitely my favorite thing about the plave though, it was spacious and the shower head was heavenly. The only thing i didnt like is that our room was on the ground floor so it was very noisy at night from the street, which is not something they have control over so I cant complain! I would definitely recommend!

Katarzyna Abraham

00:02 18 Jan 18

Good location. Old Town of Panama City. Very clean. Aircon on. Very friendly staff.

Drew Sommer

16:52 11 Jan 18

Well maintained, friendly hostel with some private rooms on top, which we stayed in. Had to climb stairs and calling what we had a balcony is pushing it, but rooms did have a view. Rooms are pleasant and clean and the location is really good. We would stay again.

Nice place. Clean beds in a/c rooms. Kitchen facilities with a balcony to eat on. Comfortable couches to rest on after a day walking around Casco Viejo and Contra Costera. Friendly people who can give great recommendations for tours and eating. My first visit with a hostel and enjoyed it more than a traditional hotel. Will do it again.

Rhys Halsey

19:40 28 Nov 17

Good hotel, stayed in the shared dormitories. They were clean, and so were the bathrooms. Good experience overall. The streets around there are a little sketchier than others in Casco, but safe. The hotel does a good job of having good security to get in. They claimed to have free parking which is actually in a parking lot 2 streets down which we never managed to find, the staff were not very helpful in explaining where it was, so don't bank on the free parking.

Marielisa Bajana

20:48 19 Nov 17

Great location. Right on the historical center. Beds are comfy and hostel is clean.

Ben Aurich

02:12 17 Nov 17

I stayed in the hotel side, not the hostel/dormitories. The rooms were clean and fresh, with nice linens. Staff and owner were super friendly, and the access to the hostel kitchen was a great perk. We stayed here on Panama independence week, and the music got loud at night, but not unbearably. I'd recommend this establishment to any of my friends.

Frazer Burlinson

01:08 06 Nov 17

Friendly and helpful bilingual staff. Great communal area and kitchen. Casco Viejo is a lively area at night so don't choose the ballroom dormitory if you are a light sleeper!

Johnathan Abrahamy

08:56 26 Oct 17

Very nice hostel right in the middle of the old city. Friendly staff and nice rooms (both dorms and private rooms)

Marine Le Faucheur

18:07 12 Sep 17

Great hostel, well located in cacao Viejo! Very clean, I took the non A.C one and it was a huge room with couches and table and every bed had a little fan so it was perfect. People are really nice and you have everything you need. Only cons is that it's surrounded by bars and all with very loud music until late.